New Social Security Powers Come to Scotland

Really proud that my amendments to the Scotland Bill come into force today. The welfare provisions in the Bill were deficient but I pressed and pressed for the Scottish Parliament to get more flexibility in these powers.

From today, the Scottish Parliament has the power to top up any UK social security benefit and introduce new benefits in devolved areas. A significant power that was as a result of positive engagement with the Scotland Bill in parliament rather than the tactics of whinge and grievance.

I haven't seen the Scottish Government talk about this too much. Perhaps it will be more substantial powers that they refuse to use?

Opposition politicians can sometimes affect real change by working with the Government. Unfortunately I was derided by the SNP for even suggesting it was worthwhile. We now have more and better powers on welfare. Job done as far as I'm concerned.